BERLIN, 3rd June, 2024 (WAM) -- Germany's Federal Network Agency announced plans to crack down on large online platforms that violate its rules, making it clear that no company is exempt from compliance, German new agency DPA reported on Monday.
"If we realise that someone is dangerous or that they are deliberately and stoically disregarding the rules, then it will be expensive," the head of the agency, Klaus Müller, told the German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung in comments published on Monday. "We are not afraid of big names," he added.
Since mid-May, Germany's Federal Network Agency has been monitoring online services for compliance with the EU Digital Services Act (DSA). The DSA aims to reduce hate speech and requires online marketplaces to remove fake products and dangerous toys while warning buyers.
Since August 2023, major online platforms have had to comply with the rules. The EU Commission is responsible for monitoring the global online platforms. In Germany, the Federal Network Agency is responsible for overseeing smaller providers who now have to follow suit.
"Many people have had bad experiences on the internet," said Müller. "Their complaints about products or content were ignored, or they were deceived and manipulated. Violations of the DSA can result in fines of up to 6 percent of annual global turnover. We are making the internet safer," promised Müller.